They say the black widow spiders have been more prevalent in homes across central Missouri, including in St. Louis.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says the bite from a black widow can be distinguished from other insect bites by the two puncture marks it makes in the skin. The venom is a neurotoxin that produces pain at the bite area and then spreads to the chest, abdomen, or the entire body, possibly leading to death.

Doctors warn, if you are bitten, you are urged to quickly get to a doctor.

Pest control officials say outbreaks of black widows occur sporadically. An area may have thousands one year and none the next depending on the weather conditions.